Roundnet, also known to many as Spikeball, is a fast-paced game played by two teams using a ball and a small round trampoline. It can be played on almost any surface and challenges players' reaction times, agility and fitness.
Simon, who has been working in aluminium production at Solarlux for four years, started playing roundnet during the coronavirus pandemic – and that's when he really caught the roundnet bug. The restrictions during the pandemic allowed four people from two households to meet outdoors – perfect for roundnet. Together with his girlfriend, he started playing against couples who were friends – the beginning of a great passion.
How does roundnet work?
“The rules are similar to beach volleyball,” explains Simon, adding: “Each team has a maximum of three touches, and on the third touch, the ball must be played over the net to the opponent. After the serve, there are no more sides, and the game is played very dynamically around the net in a 360° circle. Points are counted up to 15, and two winning sets are required to win the match.”
The net has a diameter of 91 cm, which is actually quite small, but the space around the net is unlimited and opens up a whole range of tactical possibilities for the teams. “Reading the ball is an important skill in roundnet. If you can anticipate where the next ball is going to land, you can position yourself accordingly and intercept it before it reaches the other side. Reading the ball is an important skill in roundnet. If you can predict where the next ball is going to go this gives you a little more time to position yourself correctly,” says Simon.
“A little more time...”? Watch the video to see what this actually means in roundnet.
After the pandemic, Simon and his girlfriend not only founded the roundnet division at their sports club, Spielverein 16 in Osnabrück, and organised major tournaments, but they also ran a university sports course together. “Roundnet is very popular in university sports, and the entire community is very student-oriented in terms of age.”
“At 33, I'm more of an oldie...” says Simon with a smile – even though he plays in the second Bundesliga. When asked what is particularly important to him in roundnet, Simon has an answer ready: “We have an official rule: 'Don't be a jerk'. Roundnet is usually played without a referee, fair play is the top priority – and that works very well. In high-level games, where money is also at stake, there are so-called observers who intervene in disputes, but the lower leagues manage very well without them. That's something I really appreciate.”
If you would like to try roundnet, please contact Simon directly or get in touch with the club.
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